Different scaled fragments of significant and recognisable elements are spread out into the many spaces within the building that lock themselves into coherent images when viewed from specific choreographed viewpoints. All recognisable images of “the museum columns” or “the courtroom dome” dissolves and reappears as one walks through the building giving the notion of the building as a simulacrum.

The design uses recognisable elements to emphasise an architectural intention. It introduces the argument that American culture has used postmodern ideas in its culture long before the term was recognised as a stile. In fact the present Federal Hall, with its temple façade and 19th century side-elevation and inside, is a perfect example. This project embraces the postmodern idea as a powerful tool to create meaningful constellations and seeks to explore to what extent our perception is guided by reference.